California leads the nation in marijuana dispensaries, with Los Angeles alone topping the charts at 1,481 operating storefronts, more than any city or state.
As daily cannabis use becomes more common. It’s easy to overlook the consequences that trail behind every high.
The cost of casual use may be larger than most realize.
According to a study published on Jama Psychiatry, frequent cannabis use raised dopamine levels in the brain resulting in a higher risk of developing psychotic episodes in individuals with cannabis use disorder (CUD).
In a 2019 study, researchers reported high levels of THC, the main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, increased the chances of a psychotic disorder by 10% in adults and doubled in adults who started consuming cannabis in their teen years.
Since the 1970s, THC levels have skyrocketed.
Today, products can contain up to 90% THC, compared to 3% found in products from two decades ago, according to NBC News.
While many believe that marijuana isn’t addictive, medical professionals recognize cannabis use disorder (CUD) as a real and growing issue.
Daily users may begin to show signs such as increased tolerance, failed attempts to quit, and using more than they intended.
The American Addiction Center reported in 2020 that approximately 14.2 million people age 12 or older met the criteria for cannabis use disorder, and estimated one in 10 adults who use marijuana will develop the disorder.
For those with a family history of addiction and mental illness, the chance of developing the disorder is far higher.
But the impact of cannabis use goes beyond mental health, it also carries a financial toll.
According to the National Institute of Health (NIH) daily users reported spending an average of $129.20 per week, totaling over $500 a month.
Additional costs quickly add up when considering expenses like food, gas and the quality of the product.
In the same study, users reported driving to further locations for cheaper prices despite having locations closer to home.
Those with higher tolerances may pay more for stronger, higher-grade cannabis, further raising monthly spending.
Vapes have also gained popularity in recent years. A single cartridge can range from $40-$50 per gram. For individuals who use both flower and vapes, the total monthly cost can easily approach $1,000.
What may have started as a casual expense can quickly become a major part of someone’s budget and eventually, their routine.
As spending rises and dependency grows, the consequences surge through mental health, stability, and daily life.
Consuming marijuana isn’t just a habit, but it’s a high with a price that too many people underestimate. Just because something is common, it doesn’t make it harmless.
